Sunday, May 29, 2011
Moving to WordPress
I'm moving to WordPress. I'm so thoroughly disgusted with the constant "oopsies" that Blogger is doing. If it wants to self-destruct, fine...but I'm not going along for the ride.
I'll probably be combining my new WP blog with All Thumbs Crafts and perhaps even Lazy Chef Recipes, but I'm not sure about that yet.
I'll be writing about the transfer and how it's all going, too.
Hope to see you at Screaming Sardine! <<<< - There's the link. Click to go to my new blog!
If you're serious about blogging and hope to make money off of it by either selling your wares or through affiliate and ad revenues, then I highly suggest you get thee to WP asap. All of the clients I write SEO for only have WP blogs on their own domains. (Not the freebie WP, where you don't have nearly as much flexibility). Additionally, as I started networking with power bloggers, all of them have WP or are going to WP.
I've had a long standing relationship with the following company, and I chose them to purchase my domain (always have, always will cuz they offer private registration so no one can see your real name and address. Yes, your address is online for all to see if you have your own domain and don't have it privately registered). I chose them for hosting my WP cuz they're cheaper than any others I've seen, have a great (and deserved) reputation, and have basically a one click set up of your WP blog.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Girlie Girl Giveaways
Remember to join my Mystery Hostess Scentsy Party, where you could be the mystery hostess and get the hostess benefits!
Here are a couple cute girlie girl giveaways:
Mittens at Home is having a sweetly feminine giveaway.
Deadline: June 3rd
Jones Design Company is having a girlie pink giveaway.
Deadline: June 26th
Here are a couple cute girlie girl giveaways:
Mittens at Home is having a sweetly feminine giveaway.
Deadline: June 3rd
Jones Design Company is having a girlie pink giveaway.
Deadline: June 26th
Prim Giveaways
Here are several very nice prim giveaways!
Primitive Echoes is having her first giveaway.
Deadline: June 19th
Thru Nana's Window is also having her first giveway.
Deadline: May 28th - TODAY!
Oodle Kadoodle Primitives is having her May giveaway.
Deadline: May 31st
Hungry Hook Primitives is having a hooked rug giveaway.
Deadline: June 8th
Primitive Echoes is having her first giveaway.
Deadline: June 19th
Thru Nana's Window is also having her first giveway.
Deadline: May 28th - TODAY!
Oodle Kadoodle Primitives is having her May giveaway.
Deadline: May 31st
Hungry Hook Primitives is having a hooked rug giveaway.
Deadline: June 8th
Friday, May 27, 2011
More Giveaways
Remember to join my Mystery Hostess Scentsy Party, where you could be the mystery hostess and get the hostess benefits!
Jewels in the Garden is having a Summer Soltice giveaway.
Deadline: June 20th
Remember my giveaway ends May 28th!
Jewels in the Garden is having a Summer Soltice giveaway.
Deadline: June 20th
Remember my giveaway ends May 28th!
Followers Friday
As I mentioned a couple days ago, I want to do something called Followers Friday, where I showcase my followers. It's my way of giving back to you by hopefully giving you some exposure as well. I will only feature those of you following via Google Friend Connect since I have no idea who follows me through email or feedburner. Also, if no blog is listed for you when I click on your profile, I can't really give a shout out for you. (For some reason, I run into a few profiles of people whom I know have blogs, but their link doesn't show up. Not sure why).
Kountry Porch Primitives, whose profile states: "I've been married to my best friend for 22 years and we have two wonderful boys. I love all things old & early and am passionate about making our home warm and inviting."
My very first follower and now friend, Deb from Paxton Valley Folk Art Shop. I've been drooling over her creations way before I started featuring her over at the Sunburnt Cow. She makes great folk art and prim decor items.
My Country Blog of This and That is "a 37-year-old wife and mom enjoying life on a small farm in Western Kentucky. So come on over to our neck of the woods and pull up a chair. I hope you enjoy reading about our life as much as we enjoy living it!"
Vicky's Art, who makes a wide variety of creations from handpainted wood art to actual paintings. She is quite the talented artist.
The Art and Tree Chatter of Aquariann. Her welcome message states: "The rustling of branches and warbling of forest creatures isn't so different than hearing lyrics in an unfamiliar language. I may not understand what's being sung, but the melody still rocks this fantasy artist to her toes. Scamper closer and I'll show you what else captivates me."
If you haven't visited any of these bloggers before, please take a look around their blogs. :)
Remember to join my Mystery Hostess Scentsy Party, where you could be the mystery hostess and get the hostess benefits!
Kountry Porch Primitives, whose profile states: "I've been married to my best friend for 22 years and we have two wonderful boys. I love all things old & early and am passionate about making our home warm and inviting."
My very first follower and now friend, Deb from Paxton Valley Folk Art Shop. I've been drooling over her creations way before I started featuring her over at the Sunburnt Cow. She makes great folk art and prim decor items.
My Country Blog of This and That is "a 37-year-old wife and mom enjoying life on a small farm in Western Kentucky. So come on over to our neck of the woods and pull up a chair. I hope you enjoy reading about our life as much as we enjoy living it!"
Vicky's Art, who makes a wide variety of creations from handpainted wood art to actual paintings. She is quite the talented artist.
The Art and Tree Chatter of Aquariann. Her welcome message states: "The rustling of branches and warbling of forest creatures isn't so different than hearing lyrics in an unfamiliar language. I may not understand what's being sung, but the melody still rocks this fantasy artist to her toes. Scamper closer and I'll show you what else captivates me."
If you haven't visited any of these bloggers before, please take a look around their blogs. :)
Remember to join my Mystery Hostess Scentsy Party, where you could be the mystery hostess and get the hostess benefits!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Featured Interview of Artisan of Handmade Items: Claudia from Reino Já Cheguei
This week's featured interview of an artisan of handmade items comes from Europe - Portugal to be exact. I appreciate Claudia's initiative in contacting me to ask if I would like to interview her. Reading her interview, you'll find her to be a charming, talented, and creative person.
Source
Presenting...Claudia from Reino Já Cheguei!
Tell me about your blog and your store.
"Reino Já Cheguei" means "I've Arrived at the Kingdom". Why this name? When my son Tiago was born, we used that expression to give the good news to our family ("I've arrived!"). Three years later, my Joana was born… she was finally arrived too. With a prince and a princess, we became a kingdom.
I have always been a very creative person, and after I wrote my first story book for children, I had to make all of those characters real.
Several pieces of my work have been published in various blogs and websites. I love designing/sewing my toys. There is something so wonderful about creating them - they seem to develop their own personalities as I craft them - it’s almost like I’m creating something organic! I’ve recently started to make altered books and several assemblages. One of the most exciting things is to think of my work in other people’s homes all over the world, hopefully inspiring them to get creative too!
This kingdom is my real passion. I run a blog, an online shop, where I sell my handmade toys and my books hoping that my fantasy kingdom arrives increasingly far.
How long have you been creating?
I’ve been creating since I was a little girl. When I was too young to sew, maybe about 5years old, I used to go to a shirt factory near my parent’s house and ask for fabric scraps. Then I punched some holes in them and make dresses and coats that were tied with rope. My dolls always had new clothes!
Later I started to sew dresses for smaller dolls like Barbie. My mom found out that I did it because once I broke her sewing machine needle. Then she taught me how to sew better, to embroider. And since then I’ve always been creating something. But it became more serious after my oldest son was born in 2004.
Tell me about the arts and crafts scene in Portugal. Are there certain items that are very popular?
Portugal definitely has very talented crafters. The handcrafted unique pieces are increasingly more accepted and appreciated everywhere. We are trying to escape from the mass produced items that exist in the market. These are pieces with no life, that in the production phase were never in touch with a human hands. Having said that, crafts tend to be more valuable pieces and more appreciated. Nevertheless, we still fail to fully recognize the value of a handcrafted item. They are handmade unique pieces that tend to cost more than the industrialized ones, and this still makes a difference when it’s time to buy one.
Our pieces do not differ from other country’s pieces. Maybe the materials used, or the regional and cultural influences. In this increasing global world we live in, it’s hard to find a truly original piece. Usually what makes a unique piece is the history behind it and the creative process.
Are there any particular mediums you like working with?
I tend to use quality and diversified materials. I like to add some scent to my pieces. I always ask our costumer to choose her favorite aroma.
I like to use buttons, appliques, sand beads, sequins, ribbon, lace, some of them vintage, some of them new, etc. I always try to create fun and colorful pieces.
I like to open my boxes and jars that are full of fabrics, buttons, ribbons, paper scrap and imagine what I can create from them. I usually like to use strong colors.
Is there anything you eventually want to get in to and master?
Well, because I have lots of goals for myself I want to master everything (as if I could!). I always want to try new techniques and mix them all.
The last thing I did was a tree branch dressed in crochet just like a lady. It even had a tall hat!
I really need to try different things once in a while. My ideas are always jumping up and down in my head, begging to be born...
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Well, I don’t have much spare time. Being a mother of two, a teacher, a wife, and ruling a fantasy kingdom and having to update blog, site, shop, Facebook, and all the networks we’re in, it's not easy!
Nature, besides my children, provides me the inspiration I need. Walking on the beach or in the woods, hearing the birds or the water falling, and taking pictures of what I see it’s really relaxing and inspirational.
I use to do that in family so it also helps us to get away from the daily stress too.
What's a question you wish I would've asked? (And please answer that question).
What do my eyes see?
My eyes see fantasy as a way of understanding reality better.
My eyes are the windows to my soul, they see lots of new mixed media techniques to learn, lots of books to read, lots of things to do, lots relationships to improve, lots of photos to take, lots of love to give...
I'm an eager learner.
Please list ten fun facts about you
1). I have two beautiful cats, named Mupi de Sir Dine and Milady Bug de Sir Dine (Mupi and Milady) – royalty names. :)
2). I love coffee.
3). I love chocolate.
4). I love coffee and chocolate mixed together. :)
5). Almost all of my dolls are named by my sons.
6). Now and then my sons help me stuff some of my dolls.
7). My logo is a mix of my two sons: they both have curly hair (snail) and my daughter´s name is Joana. Little Joana means ladybug in Portuguese.
8). 90% of the characters in my storytale book are/were real. 85% belong to our genealogy. They were named after our nicknames. That includes me, my husband and my sons.
9). Guizito, the boy in our logo, is definitely my alter ego. Guizito which means "Little Bell" is my fantasy kingdom's story teller. I’m an eternal child just like him and all the gnomes I know.
10). I laugh during horror movies. They don’t scare me at all!
Please list your website, blog,and/or Etsy shop urls.
Here is the arsenal:
Reino Ja Cheguei website
Reino Ja Cheguei blog
Reino Ja Cheguei Etsy Shop
Twitter
Flickr
YouTube channel
Facebook:
Facebook
Facebook Story Book
Facebook Product
Facebook Author
Source
Presenting...Claudia from Reino Já Cheguei!
Tell me about your blog and your store.
"Reino Já Cheguei" means "I've Arrived at the Kingdom". Why this name? When my son Tiago was born, we used that expression to give the good news to our family ("I've arrived!"). Three years later, my Joana was born… she was finally arrived too. With a prince and a princess, we became a kingdom.
I have always been a very creative person, and after I wrote my first story book for children, I had to make all of those characters real.
Several pieces of my work have been published in various blogs and websites. I love designing/sewing my toys. There is something so wonderful about creating them - they seem to develop their own personalities as I craft them - it’s almost like I’m creating something organic! I’ve recently started to make altered books and several assemblages. One of the most exciting things is to think of my work in other people’s homes all over the world, hopefully inspiring them to get creative too!
This kingdom is my real passion. I run a blog, an online shop, where I sell my handmade toys and my books hoping that my fantasy kingdom arrives increasingly far.
How long have you been creating?
I’ve been creating since I was a little girl. When I was too young to sew, maybe about 5years old, I used to go to a shirt factory near my parent’s house and ask for fabric scraps. Then I punched some holes in them and make dresses and coats that were tied with rope. My dolls always had new clothes!
Later I started to sew dresses for smaller dolls like Barbie. My mom found out that I did it because once I broke her sewing machine needle. Then she taught me how to sew better, to embroider. And since then I’ve always been creating something. But it became more serious after my oldest son was born in 2004.
Tell me about the arts and crafts scene in Portugal. Are there certain items that are very popular?
Portugal definitely has very talented crafters. The handcrafted unique pieces are increasingly more accepted and appreciated everywhere. We are trying to escape from the mass produced items that exist in the market. These are pieces with no life, that in the production phase were never in touch with a human hands. Having said that, crafts tend to be more valuable pieces and more appreciated. Nevertheless, we still fail to fully recognize the value of a handcrafted item. They are handmade unique pieces that tend to cost more than the industrialized ones, and this still makes a difference when it’s time to buy one.
Our pieces do not differ from other country’s pieces. Maybe the materials used, or the regional and cultural influences. In this increasing global world we live in, it’s hard to find a truly original piece. Usually what makes a unique piece is the history behind it and the creative process.
Are there any particular mediums you like working with?
I tend to use quality and diversified materials. I like to add some scent to my pieces. I always ask our costumer to choose her favorite aroma.
I like to use buttons, appliques, sand beads, sequins, ribbon, lace, some of them vintage, some of them new, etc. I always try to create fun and colorful pieces.
I like to open my boxes and jars that are full of fabrics, buttons, ribbons, paper scrap and imagine what I can create from them. I usually like to use strong colors.
Is there anything you eventually want to get in to and master?
Well, because I have lots of goals for myself I want to master everything (as if I could!). I always want to try new techniques and mix them all.
The last thing I did was a tree branch dressed in crochet just like a lady. It even had a tall hat!
I really need to try different things once in a while. My ideas are always jumping up and down in my head, begging to be born...
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Well, I don’t have much spare time. Being a mother of two, a teacher, a wife, and ruling a fantasy kingdom and having to update blog, site, shop, Facebook, and all the networks we’re in, it's not easy!
Nature, besides my children, provides me the inspiration I need. Walking on the beach or in the woods, hearing the birds or the water falling, and taking pictures of what I see it’s really relaxing and inspirational.
I use to do that in family so it also helps us to get away from the daily stress too.
What's a question you wish I would've asked? (And please answer that question).
What do my eyes see?
My eyes see fantasy as a way of understanding reality better.
My eyes are the windows to my soul, they see lots of new mixed media techniques to learn, lots of books to read, lots of things to do, lots relationships to improve, lots of photos to take, lots of love to give...
I'm an eager learner.
Please list ten fun facts about you
1). I have two beautiful cats, named Mupi de Sir Dine and Milady Bug de Sir Dine (Mupi and Milady) – royalty names. :)
2). I love coffee.
3). I love chocolate.
4). I love coffee and chocolate mixed together. :)
5). Almost all of my dolls are named by my sons.
6). Now and then my sons help me stuff some of my dolls.
7). My logo is a mix of my two sons: they both have curly hair (snail) and my daughter´s name is Joana. Little Joana means ladybug in Portuguese.
8). 90% of the characters in my storytale book are/were real. 85% belong to our genealogy. They were named after our nicknames. That includes me, my husband and my sons.
9). Guizito, the boy in our logo, is definitely my alter ego. Guizito which means "Little Bell" is my fantasy kingdom's story teller. I’m an eternal child just like him and all the gnomes I know.
10). I laugh during horror movies. They don’t scare me at all!
Please list your website, blog,and/or Etsy shop urls.
Here is the arsenal:
Reino Ja Cheguei website
Reino Ja Cheguei blog
Reino Ja Cheguei Etsy Shop
Flickr
YouTube channel
Facebook:
Facebook Story Book
Facebook Product
Facebook Author
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Scentsy Mystery Hostess Party
As I've mentioned a couple times previously, I'm having a Scentsy Mystery Hostess Party!
If you don't know about Scentsy, please check out my Independent Consultant website. There, you'll see all kinds of beautiful wickless candle warmers, plug in warmers, amazing scents, and more!
I'm really impressed with the products...totally! I make my own soy tarts, but geez, they don't have the amazing scent throw that Scentsy has! (And I pride myself on good scent throw)! The warmers are beautiful, with something for every decor. As I showed a couple posts ago, there's even a plug in warmer for prim decor!
Prim/Rustic
Rustic Star Full Size Scentsy Warmer
How about Americana?
Liberty Full Size Scentsy Warmer
Or Victorian?
Victoria Full Size Scentsy Warmer
Pretty, huh!?! The warmers are actual decor items instead of just tart warmers. :)
As you'll see when you click on my Independent Consultant Scentsy website, if you scroll down a bit on the left side, you'll see "My Open Parties." Underneath that is the name of the party - "Mystery Hostess" - as well as the date. To look around and/or purchase from the party, simply click on "Buy from party" link.
For everyone who purchases from the Mystery Hostess Party, you'll get a chance to end up being the "mystery hostess," but without having a bunch of people coming into your home and having to entertain them. So what's so great about being the "mystery hostess," you may be wondering? Well, as the hostess, you can earn free or half-price Scentsy Products!
Everyone who purchases from this party will have one chance to be the "mystery hostess." If you order $75 or more, you get two chances. If you refer a friend and s/he places an order, you get two more chances. (You will have to email me and tell me the first and last name of your friend, so I know to give you those two extra chances). If you sign up to be an independent consultant under me, you get three chances.
The party will be open until June 8th. Once I close it, I'll tally up everyone's chances, throw your names into a bowl, and then choose the winner, i.e., mystery hostess. I'll then be contacting you to choose your half-price and/or free Scentsy products.
By the way, you don't have to post a comment. I'll go by who orders and/or if you sign up to be an independent consultant. You will have to email me if you refer a friend. :)
If you don't know about Scentsy, please check out my Independent Consultant website. There, you'll see all kinds of beautiful wickless candle warmers, plug in warmers, amazing scents, and more!
I'm really impressed with the products...totally! I make my own soy tarts, but geez, they don't have the amazing scent throw that Scentsy has! (And I pride myself on good scent throw)! The warmers are beautiful, with something for every decor. As I showed a couple posts ago, there's even a plug in warmer for prim decor!
Prim/Rustic
Rustic Star Full Size Scentsy Warmer
How about Americana?
Liberty Full Size Scentsy Warmer
Or Victorian?
Victoria Full Size Scentsy Warmer
Pretty, huh!?! The warmers are actual decor items instead of just tart warmers. :)
As you'll see when you click on my Independent Consultant Scentsy website, if you scroll down a bit on the left side, you'll see "My Open Parties." Underneath that is the name of the party - "Mystery Hostess" - as well as the date. To look around and/or purchase from the party, simply click on "Buy from party" link.
For everyone who purchases from the Mystery Hostess Party, you'll get a chance to end up being the "mystery hostess," but without having a bunch of people coming into your home and having to entertain them. So what's so great about being the "mystery hostess," you may be wondering? Well, as the hostess, you can earn free or half-price Scentsy Products!
Everyone who purchases from this party will have one chance to be the "mystery hostess." If you order $75 or more, you get two chances. If you refer a friend and s/he places an order, you get two more chances. (You will have to email me and tell me the first and last name of your friend, so I know to give you those two extra chances). If you sign up to be an independent consultant under me, you get three chances.
The party will be open until June 8th. Once I close it, I'll tally up everyone's chances, throw your names into a bowl, and then choose the winner, i.e., mystery hostess. I'll then be contacting you to choose your half-price and/or free Scentsy products.
By the way, you don't have to post a comment. I'll go by who orders and/or if you sign up to be an independent consultant. You will have to email me if you refer a friend. :)
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Prim, Americana, and Miscellaneous Giveaways
Lil Raggedy Angie is having a prim giveaway in celebration of her 100th post. (Congrats, Angie)!
Deadline: June 1st
A Farmhouse Gathering at Art Fire is having an Americana giveaway.
Deadline: June 3rd
Perfectly Imperfect is holding a week of really cute giveaways.
Deadline: Winners announce 5.30
Deadline: June 1st
A Farmhouse Gathering at Art Fire is having an Americana giveaway.
Deadline: June 3rd
Perfectly Imperfect is holding a week of really cute giveaways.
Deadline: Winners announce 5.30
Followers Friday
This Friday, I'm going to start a new feature called "Followers Friday." I'll be working my way down the list from my most current followers to the oldest. Followers Friday will be spotlighting all of you, my followers, as my way of saying thank you. It's my hope that others may see your blog and might follow you as well. :)
Monday, May 23, 2011
Scentsy Warmer and Fragrance Spotlight #2
Here's another Scentsy warmer and fragrance spotlight, only this time it's a plug in warmer. Stay tuned for the Mystery Hostess online Scentsy party that I'll be holding later this week. You could end up being the Mystery Hostess (chosen by random number) and get the rewards that hostesses get!
Perfect for the prim / rustic decor is this Scentsy plug in warmer. It also comes as a full sized warmer.
And how about this for a fragrance - Clove and Cinnamon? Or perhaps some luscious Vanilla Cream, which is a blend of French Vanilla with a hint of coconut milk. Mmmmmm ~
Note: I'm an independent home consultant for Scentsy.
Perfect for the prim / rustic decor is this Scentsy plug in warmer. It also comes as a full sized warmer.
And how about this for a fragrance - Clove and Cinnamon? Or perhaps some luscious Vanilla Cream, which is a blend of French Vanilla with a hint of coconut milk. Mmmmmm ~
Note: I'm an independent home consultant for Scentsy.
A Couple of Giveaways for You
Cottonwood Lane Primitives is having a giveaway.
Deadline: When she reaches 100 followers.
A Primitive Place Magazine is having a prim giveaway.
Deadline: May 26th
Deadline:
Deadline: When she reaches 100 followers.
A Primitive Place Magazine is having a prim giveaway.
Deadline: May 26th
Deadline:
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Busy Weekend
I've been super busy lately, but it's all been good. :) This weekend I did some freelance (i.e., paid) writing work, which frees me up for the rest of the week. Of course, if more paid writing work comes my way, I'll take it!!
Still sump pumping my basement, which is getting to be a drag. It was finally drying out, but then we've had rain all weekend. Blech.
Learned to knit on Thursday and have been spending as much time knitting as I can. I absolutely adore it! Wish I could spend a lot more time knitting. LOVE IT!!
Made some more soap this weekend to send to my 200th follower - Home in New England - as a surprise. Well, it's not a surprise anymore since I emailed and asked for her address - lol. Wish I could tell what the scent is, but suffice it to say, my home smells delightful. :) I'm enjoying soap making again, though I do want to start experimenting with different looks. Sent some soaps to Sheila at Seasons of Thy Heart in Pear Berry and Tangerine scents. They were sample scents, and I'm definitely going to be ordering a bigger bottle. Loved them. Also sent her some of my prim eggs as well as a little bunny wall hanging. I guess I should add that this was before Easter - lol!
Still sump pumping my basement, which is getting to be a drag. It was finally drying out, but then we've had rain all weekend. Blech.
Learned to knit on Thursday and have been spending as much time knitting as I can. I absolutely adore it! Wish I could spend a lot more time knitting. LOVE IT!!
Made some more soap this weekend to send to my 200th follower - Home in New England - as a surprise. Well, it's not a surprise anymore since I emailed and asked for her address - lol. Wish I could tell what the scent is, but suffice it to say, my home smells delightful. :) I'm enjoying soap making again, though I do want to start experimenting with different looks. Sent some soaps to Sheila at Seasons of Thy Heart in Pear Berry and Tangerine scents. They were sample scents, and I'm definitely going to be ordering a bigger bottle. Loved them. Also sent her some of my prim eggs as well as a little bunny wall hanging. I guess I should add that this was before Easter - lol!
A Web Sale and a Giveaway
The highly regard Johanna Parker is having a web sale on May 25th.
My Messy Manger is hosting a giveaway.
Deadline: May 31st
My Messy Manger is hosting a giveaway.
Deadline: May 31st
Saturday, May 21, 2011
More Prim Giveaways
Here are the latest prim giveaways I've found.
The Old Cupboard Door is having a prim giveaway.
Deadline: June 4th
Kountry Porch Primitives is a new blog and is having a prim sampler giveaway.
Deadline: May 28th
The Old Cupboard Door is having a prim giveaway.
Deadline: June 4th
Kountry Porch Primitives is a new blog and is having a prim sampler giveaway.
Deadline: May 28th
Friday, May 20, 2011
Featured Interview of Artisan of Handmade Items: Cindy Adkins
Based in New Orleans, Cindy Adkins is a gallery artist who specializes in mixed media work. She has a particular fondness for working with textures, such as embroidery, fibers, vintage images, layered paper, or soy silk. She takes inspiration from what some may consider the everyday humdrum, making the mundane into something exciting. She is currently the featured artist for "Creating Vintage Charm" magazine for their Spring 2011 issue.
Here are some of her current creations:
Source
Source
Source
Her bio: Adkins is a published artist who holds a Master’s Degree in Humanities. She feels that her background in this field gives her a broader outlook that she brings to her own work. “Often, those aspects of classic and modern art, music, and literature are encapsulated in various pieces and it is always with a touch of whimsy.”
Following Hurricane Katrina, Adkins gained attention for her 6-month project that is a tribute to the people of the New Orleans area who have gone through the recovery process. “The survivors have risen from the ashes and I wanted to make individual pieces to honor their resilience and celebrate the human spirit. Displayed publicly, it is my gift to the community to help in the healing process.” Now, Adkins’ carefully handcrafted as well as digital art is available to people everywhere.
“Through my art, I create pieces that I want people to look at time and again, in each instance, noticing something new. That is the joy of creating as each piece contains a message. I always say that the art process is like giving birth--there is a part of me in each one.”
I really enjoy having my Whimsical Musings blog because it allows me to meet people from all over the world. I think that we all encourage each other and that is a wonderful experience.
And now to the interview. :)
How long have you had an interest in vintage, mixed media, etc.?
Shortly following Hurricane Katrina, I got married and moved to New Orleans. My husband and I renovated a home that had been under 10 feet of water. It was a 9-month process. During that time, I also completed my Master’s degree. Following that, I decided to create art for various government and private entities throughout my parish (county.) These pieces were created to celebrate the human spirit.
What followed were 2 one-woman exhibitions featuring my work and now those pieces are at different permanent locations throughout the area.
How did you get started? Did you start by experimenting around, or did you take a class and go from there?
I have been creative my whole life. I never took any classes to create art. It all started with the Katrina project and it went from there.
Are there any particular mediums you like working with?
I love working with fabric, paper, soy silk, fibers, and with found objects.
Is there anything you eventually want to get in to and master?
If I did anything in the future, I guess it would be stained glass because I have a large stained glass collection.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Hmmm, I don’t have any spare time! So, I guess that in my spare time, I create art!
What's a question you wish I would've asked? (And please answer that question).
I wish you would have asked why art is important to me. But, I also wonder what my answer would be because it seems that once someone starts, new ideas are born and it is an on-going process. One idea gives birth to another one.
What are ten fun facts about you?
1. I have a precious Maltese named Jamie and an adorable tuxedo cat named Stella.
2. I love music and wrote my Master’s thesis about the life and music of Billie Holiday.
3. I used to own a children’s music label and my first album was made into a kareoke program for Tandy Corporation (Radio Shack) for a new computer that had come out at the time.
4. I was a voting member of the Grammy Awards.
5. A few years ago, I went to a party at the White House for the 4th of July.
6. The first year I was in New Orleans, my husband and I were on a float for the Mardi Gras parade.
7. Years ago, I sang “Amazing Grace” with Willie Nelson on the radio. It was a dream come true!
8. I love to dance every kind of dancing, including country and salsa.
9. If anyone knows me well, they know that spirituality is the most important thing to me.
10. When I was in California, I was an ESL teacher, loved it, and worked with people from all over the world. It was an amazing experience.
Please list your website, blog, and/or Etsy shop urls.
Whimsical Musings
Her Whimsical Musings Etsy Shop
Here are some of her current creations:
Source
Source
Source
Her bio: Adkins is a published artist who holds a Master’s Degree in Humanities. She feels that her background in this field gives her a broader outlook that she brings to her own work. “Often, those aspects of classic and modern art, music, and literature are encapsulated in various pieces and it is always with a touch of whimsy.”
Following Hurricane Katrina, Adkins gained attention for her 6-month project that is a tribute to the people of the New Orleans area who have gone through the recovery process. “The survivors have risen from the ashes and I wanted to make individual pieces to honor their resilience and celebrate the human spirit. Displayed publicly, it is my gift to the community to help in the healing process.” Now, Adkins’ carefully handcrafted as well as digital art is available to people everywhere.
“Through my art, I create pieces that I want people to look at time and again, in each instance, noticing something new. That is the joy of creating as each piece contains a message. I always say that the art process is like giving birth--there is a part of me in each one.”
I really enjoy having my Whimsical Musings blog because it allows me to meet people from all over the world. I think that we all encourage each other and that is a wonderful experience.
And now to the interview. :)
How long have you had an interest in vintage, mixed media, etc.?
Shortly following Hurricane Katrina, I got married and moved to New Orleans. My husband and I renovated a home that had been under 10 feet of water. It was a 9-month process. During that time, I also completed my Master’s degree. Following that, I decided to create art for various government and private entities throughout my parish (county.) These pieces were created to celebrate the human spirit.
What followed were 2 one-woman exhibitions featuring my work and now those pieces are at different permanent locations throughout the area.
How did you get started? Did you start by experimenting around, or did you take a class and go from there?
I have been creative my whole life. I never took any classes to create art. It all started with the Katrina project and it went from there.
Are there any particular mediums you like working with?
I love working with fabric, paper, soy silk, fibers, and with found objects.
Is there anything you eventually want to get in to and master?
If I did anything in the future, I guess it would be stained glass because I have a large stained glass collection.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Hmmm, I don’t have any spare time! So, I guess that in my spare time, I create art!
What's a question you wish I would've asked? (And please answer that question).
I wish you would have asked why art is important to me. But, I also wonder what my answer would be because it seems that once someone starts, new ideas are born and it is an on-going process. One idea gives birth to another one.
What are ten fun facts about you?
1. I have a precious Maltese named Jamie and an adorable tuxedo cat named Stella.
2. I love music and wrote my Master’s thesis about the life and music of Billie Holiday.
3. I used to own a children’s music label and my first album was made into a kareoke program for Tandy Corporation (Radio Shack) for a new computer that had come out at the time.
4. I was a voting member of the Grammy Awards.
5. A few years ago, I went to a party at the White House for the 4th of July.
6. The first year I was in New Orleans, my husband and I were on a float for the Mardi Gras parade.
7. Years ago, I sang “Amazing Grace” with Willie Nelson on the radio. It was a dream come true!
8. I love to dance every kind of dancing, including country and salsa.
9. If anyone knows me well, they know that spirituality is the most important thing to me.
10. When I was in California, I was an ESL teacher, loved it, and worked with people from all over the world. It was an amazing experience.
Please list your website, blog, and/or Etsy shop urls.
Whimsical Musings
Her Whimsical Musings Etsy Shop
Craft Supplies Giveaway
Crafts Unleashed is having a big craft supplies giveaway to celebrate their 2000 facebook fans.
Deadline: May 23rd
Deadline: May 23rd
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Scentsy Warmer and Fragrance Spotlight
As I recently mentioned, I just became a Scentsy Independent Consultant. I was surprised at how many warmers and scents they have! So to further educate myself and perhaps you, I thought I'd spotlight various products along the way.
One of my favorites is this pretty.
I love nature and, with the fern leaf, it reminds me of nature. I think a Scentsy fragrance like White Tea and Cactus (a mixture of floral and green notes) would go perfectly with this. For something more masculine, Simply Irresistible would fit the bill, which is a mixture of amber, moss, musk, and lavender.
Stay tuned for my Mystery Hostess online party soon. It's a way for one lucky person to earn the hostess rewards!
One of my favorites is this pretty.
I love nature and, with the fern leaf, it reminds me of nature. I think a Scentsy fragrance like White Tea and Cactus (a mixture of floral and green notes) would go perfectly with this. For something more masculine, Simply Irresistible would fit the bill, which is a mixture of amber, moss, musk, and lavender.
Stay tuned for my Mystery Hostess online party soon. It's a way for one lucky person to earn the hostess rewards!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Americana, Vintage, and Prim Giveaways
Capers of the Vintage Vixens is having a vintage purse giveaway.
Deadline: May 24th
Brenda at The Rusty Thimble is having an Americana giveaway.
Deadline: May 31st
Paula's Primitives is having a prim giveaway.
Deadline: June 1st
Deadline: May 24th
Brenda at The Rusty Thimble is having an Americana giveaway.
Deadline: May 31st
Paula's Primitives is having a prim giveaway.
Deadline: June 1st
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
A New Venture
I signed up to be an Independent Home Consultant for a couple of companies, one of which is Scentsy. I'm totally in love with this company and their products, so you'll be seeing some posts about them on here. I'll also be hosting an online party for it soon. Just gotta figure out all the particulars.
A couple Americana and Vintage Giveaways
Here are a couple Americana and Vintage giveaways:
A Simpler Time is having an Americana giveaway.
Deadline: When she reaches 200 followers, which will be soon!
Junk to Joy is having a generous vintage giveaway.
Deadline: May 21st
A Simpler Time is having an Americana giveaway.
Deadline: When she reaches 200 followers, which will be soon!
Junk to Joy is having a generous vintage giveaway.
Deadline: May 21st
Swap with Rusty Thimble
I recently did a swap with Brenda over at The Rusty Thimble. I love rabbits and was drooling over one of her creations. She generously agreed to a swap of some handmade soap. She picked out the scent (Spicy Orange), and I also sent her a spicy orange and spiced cranberry mix. Also sent a funky little wall hanging using my favorite new technique - painting on tinfoil!
Brenda sent this lovely guy:
Look at his little legs and feet!! So adorable.
Brenda also sent along some of her handmade strawberries. She really does awesome work. Love the attention to detail and how sturdily made all of the products I've received from her are. Check out her blog and her Etsy shop if you have a hankering for some well made handmade goodies!
Brenda sent this lovely guy:
Look at his little legs and feet!! So adorable.
Brenda also sent along some of her handmade strawberries. She really does awesome work. Love the attention to detail and how sturdily made all of the products I've received from her are. Check out her blog and her Etsy shop if you have a hankering for some well made handmade goodies!
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Show Off Your Store
Here's a link party where you can show off your Etsy or other online store:
Today's Creative Blog
Additionally, there's a giveaway going on at Cedar Street Craft Mall where you can get free advertising.
Deadline: June 1st
Today's Creative Blog
Additionally, there's a giveaway going on at Cedar Street Craft Mall where you can get free advertising.
Deadline: June 1st
Prim and Vintage Giveaways
Here are a few prim and vintage giveaways:
Somewhere in the Middle is having an Americana / prim giveaway.
Deadline: May 29th
The Red Cupboard Post is having a prim giveaway.
Deadline: When she reaches 100 followers.
The Blessed Hearth is having a lovely vintage giveaway.
Deadline: May 30th
I first discovered the talent and creativity of Vintage Skye at a link party. She's now having a giveaway over at Under the Table and Dreaming.
Deadline: ??
Buttermilk Creek Farm is having a giveaway to celebrate spring.
Deadline: June 11th
Somewhere in the Middle is having an Americana / prim giveaway.
Deadline: May 29th
The Red Cupboard Post is having a prim giveaway.
Deadline: When she reaches 100 followers.
The Blessed Hearth is having a lovely vintage giveaway.
Deadline: May 30th
I first discovered the talent and creativity of Vintage Skye at a link party. She's now having a giveaway over at Under the Table and Dreaming.
Deadline: ??
Buttermilk Creek Farm is having a giveaway to celebrate spring.
Deadline: June 11th
Friday, May 13, 2011
Featured Interview of Artisan of Handmade Items: Rebecca of Gather Ye Roses
Please note that there's an audio interview of Rebecca of Gather Ye Roses over at the Screaming Sardine.
Here are some of her lovely creations:
Here are some of her lovely creations:
Featured Interview of Artisan of Handmade Items: Gail of Shabby Cottage Studio
This week's featured interview is Gail of Shabby Cottage Studios.
Here are some of her recent creations:
Learn the above digital technique at a worshop she's offering, that I'm actually taking. Can't wait!
Pretty impressive, huh!?! Well, let's learn more about her.
Tell me about your blog, store, and workshops.
Shabby Cottage Studio was a blog first, back in the days when a lot of people weren’t even quite sure exactly what you did with a blog. I thought I would use it as a marketing tool for my then EBay offerings. But I quickly learned that a blog is much more important than simply a marketing tool, that it can also be life changing. A blog brings you the opportunity to find like minded souls, make new friends and discover connections you would never have had the opportunity to make otherwise.
I opened my online store basically because I’m a bit of a control freak ;-) and was tired of others telling me how to run my business. It seemed only natural that the store and the blog would work hand in hand. I wanted a place where I could offer supplies I found I liked, and also used in my own work, to other artists and crafters. I wanted a little spot in the virtual road where I could also sell my own art.
I used to teach painting and missed teaching but also at this point in my life was living the rural life with no prospective students within reasonable distances. My dream of offering online workshops planted a seed and one day I realized I didn’t want to just offer my classes. I wanted to offer something more. I knew what it was like to want to take classes and not be able to afford to travel to live workshops. I had taken some online classes with PDF style teaching and discovered that was not my learning style. I wanted to SEE the action. I knew that videos were the wave of the future on the Internet. All those ideas came together and jelled into Creative Workshops. As of this moment we have close to thirty class offerings. I’m very proud of Creative Workshops and its teachers.
I also have another project in the working, a little collaboration with my friend Cristina Zinnia Galliher and we are hosting the first ever online art fest called Artful Gathering. [Tracy's note: I'm taking some wonderful art classes from Zinnia over at Roses on My Table.] We have gathered sixteen artists, each with their own video workshop all in one place for 6 weeks starting July 16, 2011. And we have another project in the beginning stages of planning.
How long have you had an interest in shabby cottage decor and your current artistic endeavors?
I’ve loved the shabby décor for at least the past twenty years and will never grow tired of it. It speaks volumes to me because it is warm and accessible and can take many forms. I’ve been working at artistic endeavors even longer but for financial gain I have been doing something artistic for, again, at least 20 years or more.
How did you get started? Did you start by experimenting around, or did you take a class and go from there?
I have always dabbled in many art forms on my own but the first day I took a painting class in 1993 it seems my fate was sealed. I became a creating maniac and painted 7 days a week for years.
Are there any particular mediums you like working with?
Oh gosh, I love so many, it would be hard to call one my favorite, but I will say these days it is fabric calling the tune for me.
Is there anything you eventually want to get in to and master?
No nothing in particular, I am at an age in life where I want to just play with everything that moves my heart and not worry about mastery.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I truly have no spare time. Between the online businesses, my husband and I rent space in an antique store and sell shabby style furniture, either rehabbed by us or built by my hubby. Sometimes when I find an extra day here or there without any pressing need I try to get into the workroom to create something for me.
What's a question you wish I would've asked? (And please answer that question).
Well that’s a toughie isn’t? LOL Let’s see, you didn’t ask me if I love what I do. And my answer would be yes. Most days. ;-)
What are ten fun facts about you?
I love to laugh and love people with a good sense of humor.
I make up silly nonsensical songs and sing them to my dog and cats.
I talk to my dog and cats as if they are human and am sometimes disappointed when they actually act like a dog or a cat.
Peonies, Roses and Hydrangeas are my top 3 picks for flowers.
I love old, rusty, crackly, peeling, and worn.
I love white ironstone and thick white plates.
I love working digitally to create; the magic often takes my breath away.
I was born on the 5th day of the 5th month in the ‘50’s so number 5 is my favorite number.
I can’t carry a tune but I love to sing.
I am a chocoholic but simple chocolate, none of that chocolate on top of chocolate on top of more chocolate for me.
Please list your website, blog, and/or shop urls.
Shabby Cottage Studio
Creative Workshops
Shabby Cottage Studio Blog
Shabby Cottage Studio Etsy Shop
Artful Gathering
Here are some of her recent creations:
Learn the above digital technique at a worshop she's offering, that I'm actually taking. Can't wait!
Pretty impressive, huh!?! Well, let's learn more about her.
Tell me about your blog, store, and workshops.
Shabby Cottage Studio was a blog first, back in the days when a lot of people weren’t even quite sure exactly what you did with a blog. I thought I would use it as a marketing tool for my then EBay offerings. But I quickly learned that a blog is much more important than simply a marketing tool, that it can also be life changing. A blog brings you the opportunity to find like minded souls, make new friends and discover connections you would never have had the opportunity to make otherwise.
I opened my online store basically because I’m a bit of a control freak ;-) and was tired of others telling me how to run my business. It seemed only natural that the store and the blog would work hand in hand. I wanted a place where I could offer supplies I found I liked, and also used in my own work, to other artists and crafters. I wanted a little spot in the virtual road where I could also sell my own art.
I used to teach painting and missed teaching but also at this point in my life was living the rural life with no prospective students within reasonable distances. My dream of offering online workshops planted a seed and one day I realized I didn’t want to just offer my classes. I wanted to offer something more. I knew what it was like to want to take classes and not be able to afford to travel to live workshops. I had taken some online classes with PDF style teaching and discovered that was not my learning style. I wanted to SEE the action. I knew that videos were the wave of the future on the Internet. All those ideas came together and jelled into Creative Workshops. As of this moment we have close to thirty class offerings. I’m very proud of Creative Workshops and its teachers.
I also have another project in the working, a little collaboration with my friend Cristina Zinnia Galliher and we are hosting the first ever online art fest called Artful Gathering. [Tracy's note: I'm taking some wonderful art classes from Zinnia over at Roses on My Table.] We have gathered sixteen artists, each with their own video workshop all in one place for 6 weeks starting July 16, 2011. And we have another project in the beginning stages of planning.
How long have you had an interest in shabby cottage decor and your current artistic endeavors?
I’ve loved the shabby décor for at least the past twenty years and will never grow tired of it. It speaks volumes to me because it is warm and accessible and can take many forms. I’ve been working at artistic endeavors even longer but for financial gain I have been doing something artistic for, again, at least 20 years or more.
How did you get started? Did you start by experimenting around, or did you take a class and go from there?
I have always dabbled in many art forms on my own but the first day I took a painting class in 1993 it seems my fate was sealed. I became a creating maniac and painted 7 days a week for years.
Are there any particular mediums you like working with?
Oh gosh, I love so many, it would be hard to call one my favorite, but I will say these days it is fabric calling the tune for me.
Is there anything you eventually want to get in to and master?
No nothing in particular, I am at an age in life where I want to just play with everything that moves my heart and not worry about mastery.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I truly have no spare time. Between the online businesses, my husband and I rent space in an antique store and sell shabby style furniture, either rehabbed by us or built by my hubby. Sometimes when I find an extra day here or there without any pressing need I try to get into the workroom to create something for me.
What's a question you wish I would've asked? (And please answer that question).
Well that’s a toughie isn’t? LOL Let’s see, you didn’t ask me if I love what I do. And my answer would be yes. Most days. ;-)
What are ten fun facts about you?
I love to laugh and love people with a good sense of humor.
I make up silly nonsensical songs and sing them to my dog and cats.
I talk to my dog and cats as if they are human and am sometimes disappointed when they actually act like a dog or a cat.
Peonies, Roses and Hydrangeas are my top 3 picks for flowers.
I love old, rusty, crackly, peeling, and worn.
I love white ironstone and thick white plates.
I love working digitally to create; the magic often takes my breath away.
I was born on the 5th day of the 5th month in the ‘50’s so number 5 is my favorite number.
I can’t carry a tune but I love to sing.
I am a chocoholic but simple chocolate, none of that chocolate on top of chocolate on top of more chocolate for me.
Please list your website, blog, and/or shop urls.
Shabby Cottage Studio
Creative Workshops
Shabby Cottage Studio Blog
Shabby Cottage Studio Etsy Shop
Artful Gathering
A Couple of Giveaways
If you're looking for prim giveaways, here's one for you: My Primitive Creations by Tonya.
Deadline: May 25th
For those who like vintage giveaways, Sugar Lump Studios is having what she calls a "wee giveaway."
Deadline: May 20th.
Deadline: May 25th
For those who like vintage giveaways, Sugar Lump Studios is having what she calls a "wee giveaway."
Deadline: May 20th.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
A Couple Very Nice Giveaways
Sew Fabulous Quilt Shop is having a fat quarters giveaway.
Deadline: May 31st
Rose Petals and Rust is having a 700 follower vintage giveaway.
Deadline: June 1st
Deadline: May 31st
Rose Petals and Rust is having a 700 follower vintage giveaway.
Deadline: June 1st
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